Michael Caggiano and Laine Shakeredge, residents of Key Biscayne, founded Jewelry for Good in 2019 with a simple but powerful mission: to raise funds for important causes through donations of unwanted gold and sterling silver items.
The idea came when they noticed how little people were getting when selling their unwanted gold to jewelry stores. “Why not allow people to donate these items for a full tax deduction while supporting charity?” Shakeredge said.
The nonprofit was born from this concept, aiming to help people contribute to nonprofit organizations without having to write a check. Jewelry for Good focuses on turning gold jewelry, even broken pieces, and sterling silver items, like unused bowls and utensils, into charitable donations.
“Over $500 billion worth of gold and silver is owned by American households,” Shakeredge said. “We estimate that 20% of these items are broken, unwanted, and unused, which is a multi-million dollar opportunity for nonprofits.”
Jewelry for Good carefully evaluates and processes each donation. Once appraised, the items are refined, and the proceeds are donated in full, tax-free, to the nonprofit charity chosen by the donor.
The organization is run entirely by volunteers and has already raised over $100,000 for causes such as Alzheimer’s research, ovarian cancer research, food banks, and animal welfare. Shakeredge emphasizes that it’s not about the size of the item but the impact of the donation. “If you don’t wear it or use it, donate it!” she said.
In January, Jewelry for Good began spotlighting organizations helping victims of the California wildfires, including World Central Kitchen and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Shakeredge expressed their deep sympathy for those affected by the wildfires, adding, “Not everyone can contribute financially, but Jewelry for Good offers an easy and practical way to help.”
Here’s how it works: supporters fill out a simple form, request a prepaid FedEx label, and send in their unwanted jewelry and silver items. Jewelry for Good then appraises the items, sends them to a refinery, and donates 100% of the net proceeds to a charity chosen by the donor. Donors receive a tax receipt for the full donation amount.
In addition to direct donations, Jewelry for Good also hosts fundraising events called “Bring Your Bling,” where social gatherings are turned into fundraising opportunities. A typical 40-person event can raise over $18,000 for charity.
Marya Meyer, executive director of the Miami-Dade Women’s Foundation, praised the initiative: “Jewelry for Good has been a unique and effective way to raise money for our mission. We’ve raised thousands of dollars for initiatives supporting women and girls in our community through their events.”
Jewelry for Good’s innovative approach offers nonprofits a fresh fundraising strategy, while allowing donors to make a meaningful contribution in a simple, impactful way.
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